Category Archives: Resources

Horizons Behaviour Consulting

ABA therapy – We have just opened a NEW in-centre space and still have some availability for children aged 2 – 6. If you have any families looking for support with their children and the in-centre is a good fit, please feel free to pass on our information. We also provide in-home therapy as well as a NEW Summer Camp starting this July.

Reminder! Tax Season is Upon Us

The Housing Navigators at Developmental Services Ontario (DSO) want to remind you that the tax season started on Monday February 19, 2024. They are sharing the following information to help you.

You can now file your taxes for the 2023 tax year.

This is a timely reminder for those on the social housing registry (waitlist for Rent Geared to Income – RGI) to review and if needed, update your file, and upload your new Notice of Assessment – NOA (the document Canada Revenue Agency – CRA provides after you file your taxes each year).

You will also need to file your taxes if you are currently living in subsidized housing/Rent Geared to Income housing; or if you are receiving the Canada Ontario Housing Benefit – COHB (you will also have to renew your COHB between May and June 2024, to continue to be eligible for the COHB, your taxes must be filed).

Read the What to Know and Prepare for Tax Season document for information and tips from the Government of Canada.

Who is obligated or required to file taxes in Canada, depends on a person’s situation. If you are unsure if you need to file a tax return, more information can be found on the Government of Canada website.

Even if you are not required to file a tax return, here are some of the reasons it might be in your best interest to do so anyway. When filing taxes you can:

  • Apply for refundable tax credits, which are payable to you even if you have low earnings and have paid no tax.
  • Establish your eligibility, or continued eligibility, for provincial benefit programs. See the Government Programs, Benefits and Services information for your province
  • Apply for the GST/HST credit – If you are 18 years of age or older, you should file a tax return even if you have no income, in order to apply for the GST credit. You must be 19 to receive the credit, but if you will turn 19 before April 1 of the following year, you should apply now so that you will receive your first GST payment as soon as possible after you turn 19.
  • Claim the Disability Tax Credit – DTC – The disability tax credit (DTC) is a non-refundable tax credit that helps people with disabilities, or their supporting family member, reduce the amount of income tax they may have to pay. If you haven’t already applied for the Disability Tax Credit, more information can be found here.
  • Apply for the Ontario Trillium Benefit – this program assists low-income people with energy costs, sales tax, and property tax. To apply, complete the ON-BEN application for the Ontario Trillium Benefit when completing your taxes.
  • Apply to receive the Climate Action Incentive.
  • Renew eligibility for the GIS (Guaranteed Income Supplement) – this supplement is for seniors. Filing of your annual income tax return automatically renews the GIS for those who are eligible.

If you need help filing your taxes, you may be able to access a free tax clinic.

The Journey to adulthood Discussion Workshop

Autism Ontario – The Journey to Adulthood Discussion Workshop (for parents and caregivers of autistic youth ages 16-20)

A series of six discussions featuring topics relevant to the transition from youth to adulthood. Each session includes discussion and resources around specific topics on the journey to adulthood. Topics will include: Funding (as of age 18); Consent, capacity, and legal concerns; Post-secondary options; Employment, Advocacy, Mental health

Wednesdays, 7-830PM, March 13, – April 17, 2024.   **Registration opens Thursday February 29 at 7PM   https://www.autismontario.com/civicrm/event/info?id=9406

CVE Inc.

Pediatric Physiotherapy – For parents seeking private pediatric physiotherapy services. Offering services by a physiotherapist with 20+ years of experience treating all age groups and impairments, especially those suffering from developmental disorders and delays in milestones. Please visit the website for more information and a full list of services.

University of New Brunswick

Research Study – Autistic high schoolers (Grade 9-12) are needed for an online interview about their experience preparing to transition to adulthood. Parents of autistic high schoolers can also participate in an online interview regarding their child’s preparation for adulthood. The child must be in high school in Canada. Chance to win $25 CDN visa gift card. To find out more, email jbest1@unb.ca.

This project has been reviewed and approved by the research ethics board at the University of New Brunswick and is on file REB# 2022-173.